The First Starry Night

The siren call of Vincent Van Gogh's vivid style and romantic outsider status makes the artist an appealing but tricky subject for those who would attract children to fine art. In her first book for children, Isom tells of Jacques, an orphan who befriends the beleaguered painter in Arles, emphasizing Van Gogh's kindness to children and animals. The two friends walk, talk and eat within full-page, swirling settings reminiscent of the artist's paintings. The ever-practical Jacques is sweetly protective of Vincent's physical and financial health, and the infinitely patient artist in turn counsels the child not to worry about money. Unfortunately, Isom's PG-rated Van Gogh lacks spark and her illustrations look fuzzy and sentimental next to the lone reproduction--The Starry Night--which fairly leaps off the page. Neophytes who do find this avuncular Vincent compelling will find no bibliography, picture locator or biographical sketch to help them explore further. Ages 6-12. (Apr.)